1966 Volkswagen 1600 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen 1600.
Because 1966 Volkswagen 1600 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1966 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Volkswagen 1600 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
